The move is not unprecedented. When Windows Vista was panned by critics who thought it had been released too early, many OEMs began offering a downgrade to Windows XP after it became clear that despite a charm offensive by Microsoft, public perception was irreversibly against it.

Meanwhile HP has decided that the popularity of Windows 7 is its best chance of encouraging more people to buy new computers in a declining market. With discounts of $150 for taking Windows 7, this appears to be more than a gimmick and a stand against the much maligned operating system.

The PCs that HP is offering in the promotion are largely desktops, though there are a number of Windows 7 laptops prominently advertised too. Sales of Windows 7 have not ceased for individual purchase, and there is no rule that OEMs cannot continue to provide a Windows 7 option. However HP is the first of the top five PC makers to take a definite stand in favour of Windows 7 in the consumer market. µ